Can I take clonazepam while breastfeeding?

Understanding Clonazepam Use While Breastfeeding
The question of whether it is safe to take clonazepam while breastfeeding is a nuanced one, involving a careful consideration of both the benefits of the medication and the potential risks to the infant. Clonazepam, a benzodiazepine commonly prescribed for anxiety and seizure disorders, is known to be excreted in breast milk, albeit in small amounts.
Safety Considerations
According to recent guidelines, clonazepam can be used cautiously during breastfeeding. An expert consensus suggests that low doses of clonazepam may be acceptable for conditions such as refractory restless leg syndrome during lactation. However, the medication’s long half-life raises concerns about the risk of accumulation in breastfed infants, which could lead to adverse effects such as sedation, decreased weight, or even more severe outcomes like apnea and cyanosis.
The product labeling for clonazepam advises against its use during breastfeeding, yet it also acknowledges that the benefits of the medication might outweigh the potential risks associated with breastfeeding. This highlights the importance of individualized medical advice. Healthcare providers can help weigh the necessity of clonazepam against the benefits of breastfeeding, considering the mother’s mental health needs and the infant’s well-being.
Monitoring and Recommendations
If a mother is prescribed clonazepam while breastfeeding, it is crucial to monitor the infant for signs of sedation, adequate weight gain, and developmental milestones. In a study involving mothers who took benzodiazepines while nursing, only one out of twenty-two mothers reported sedation in her infant, suggesting that while risks exist, they may not be widespread.
Healthcare professionals often recommend that mothers discuss their specific circumstances with their doctors. This conversation should include an assessment of the mother’s mental health needs, the dosage of clonazepam, and any other medications being taken, as these factors can influence the safety of breastfeeding while on this medication.
Conclusion
In summary, while clonazepam can be taken during breastfeeding, it should be done with caution and under medical supervision. The decision should be based on a thorough evaluation of the mother’s health needs and the potential risks to the infant. Continuous monitoring of the infant’s health is essential to ensure that any adverse effects are promptly addressed.

What helps with anxiety while breastfeeding?

You may find that just knowing your feelings have a name, helps you cope with the symptoms. Other things that may help are: distracting yourself while breastfeeding, eg eating. avoiding things which make the symptoms worse such as stress, dehydration and caffeine.

What anxiety medication can you take while breastfeeding?

Safe medication in breastfeeding
They include, in no particular order: SSRI antidepressants e.g. sertraline, citalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine all have anti- anxiety activity. They take 4 to 6 weeks to exert full benefit. Tri-cyclic antidepressants e.g. amitriptyline, imipramine.

How long does benzos stay in breast milk?

There isn’t a clear amount of time for how long you should pump and discard your milk if you’re taking benzodiazepines. Pump and discard your milk for at least 2-4 hours after taking benzodiazepines. It’s probably better to wait longer.

Is it okay to take Klonopin while pregnant?

Benzodiazepines: Women should avoid using tranquilizers, such as diazepam, alprazolam and clonazepam, in high doses during pregnancy because they can lead to sedation and respiratory distress in the newborn. You can still use them in small doses for short periods of time.

How long does klonopin stay in your breast milk?

Klonopin and Breastfeeding
Because of its long half-life, Klonopin will likely be present in breastmilk for 1–2 weeks after taking a dose.

How long do I need to wait to breastfeed after taking Xanax?

Breastfeeding while taking alprazolam:
If you suspect the baby has any symptoms (being too sleepy, poor feeding, and poor weight gain), contact the child’s healthcare provider. After a single dose of alprazolam, there is usually no need to wait to breastfeed.

What is the safest benzodiazepine while breastfeeding?

Lorazepam and oxazepam are the preferred benzodiazepines during breast feeding, if clinically appropriate. Recommendations apply to full term, healthy infants.

Is clonazepam safe while breastfeeding?

Clonazepam and breastfeeding
If your doctor, health visitor or midwife says your baby is healthy, you can usually take clonazepam if you are breastfeeding. There is not much information about taking clonazepam while breastfeeding, but it is thought that it passes into breast milk in very small amounts.

What are the nursing precautions for clonazepam?

If you are taking clonazepam with an opioid medication, seek medical attention immediately if you experience unusual dizziness, extreme sleepiness, or slowed or troubled breathing. Caregivers must get medical help right away if a patient is unresponsive. Avoid alcohol while taking this medication.

Which drug is usually avoided with breastfeeding?

Table. Examples of drugs contraindicated in breastfeeding.

Drug	Comment
Iodine	High doses (>150 micrograms daily) lead to risk of infant hypothyroidism
Lithium	Breastfeeding only feasible with rigorous monitoring
Radiopharmaceuticals	Contact obstetric information service
Retinoids (oral)	Potential for serious adverse effects